Traveling to the United States has become more convenient for citizens of many countries, thanks to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
This system allows eligible travelers to visit the U.S. without obtaining a traditional visa, provided they meet certain conditions. Below is everything you need to know about ESTA, from eligibility to application.
What Is ESTA?
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online system developed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. It determines whether travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries are allowed to enter the United States for short visits.
- It is not a visa but rather an entry authorization.
- Travelers with approved ESTA can visit the U.S. for tourism, business, or transit.
- The maximum stay allowed is 90 days per visit.
Who Needs ESTA?
You need ESTA if you are:
- A citizen or eligible national of a Visa Waiver Program country (e.g., the UK, Japan, Singapore, Australia, most EU nations).
- Visiting the U.S. for 90 days or less.
- Traveling for tourism, business meetings, short study courses, or transit.
- Arriving by air or sea (ESTA is not required if entering by land from Canada or Mexico, though forms are needed).
✅ VWP (Visa Waiver Program) — Countries Eligible
| Region | Countries / Territories | Notes / Requirements |
|---|---|---|
Europe | Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom | Visa-exempt for short-term travel (tourism, business, transit); e-passport required; ESTA must be approved before air travel. |
Asia-Pacific | Australia, Brunei, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan | Visa-exempt for short-term travel; e-passport required; ESTA approval mandatory for air travel. |
Middle East | Qatar, Israel | Visa-exempt for short-term travel; e-passport required; ESTA approval mandatory for air travel. |
Americas | N/A | Most countries in the Americas require a visa; exceptions listed above (e.g., certain territories in Europe and Asia). |
💵 ESTA Fee
- The standard ESTA application fee is US $21.
- However, there is a planned fee increase: starting September 30, 2025, the fee will rise to US $40.
- Cost applies per applicant, even minors and children.
How to Apply for ESTA
Steps 1: Go to the Official Website
Applications must be submitted through the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website. Beware of third-party sites that charge extra fees.
Steps 2: Fill Out the Form
Provide personal details (passport info, travel itinerary).
Steps 3: Pay the Fee and Get Approval
The standard ESTA fee is USD $21 to USD $40 (as of 2025). In most cases, approval is received within minutes, though it can take up to 72 hours.
What You Need to Know About ESTA
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
Validity of ESTA | • Valid for 2 years or until passport expires (whichever comes first) • Can be used for multiple trips within validity period • Maximum stay: 90 days per visit • Extensions not allowed |
Benefits of ESTA | ✔ Faster and easier than applying for a U.S. visa ✔ No in-person embassy interview ✔ Multiple entries allowed during validity ✔ Lower cost compared to traditional visas |
Limitations of ESTA | ✘ Cannot be used for stays longer than 90 days ✘ Not valid for work or full-time study ✘ Entry is not guaranteed (final decision by U.S. Customs) ✘ Travelers with criminal history or overstays may be denied |
🚫 Common Reasons for ESTA Denial or Ineligibility
Using ESTA doesn’t guarantee entry, here are frequent reasons applications get denied or travellers get deemed ineligible under VWP
| Reason | Details / Implication |
|---|---|
Criminal history or serious offenses | Drug offenses, fraud, violent crimes often result in denial. |
Previous overstays or immigration violations in the U.S. | Overstaying previous visits severely impacts eligibility. |
False or inconsistent info on application form | Even minor errors (passport number, name spelling) can cause rejection. |
Prior visa/ESTA denial or deportation from U.S. | History of denial or removal triggers ineligibility under ESTA. |
Travel to or nationality from restricted/high‑risk countries | Recent visits to or nationals of certain countries (e.g. restricted list) disqualify VWP use. |
Not holding a biometric (chip) e-passport | E‑passport is mandatory for VWP/ESTA travel; airlines may deny boarding without one. |
Tips for a Smooth Entry
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before departure
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before departure, as approval may take up to three days to process.
While many applications are approved within minutes, delays can happen, so applying early ensures you receive authorization in time for your trip and avoids last-minute travel issues.
Use the same passport that you registered with
Always use the same passport that you registered with when applying for ESTA. Since the authorization is electronically linked to your passport number, you must present that exact passport when boarding your flight and upon arrival in the United States.
If your passport has been renewed, replaced, or is set to expire soon, you will need to submit a new ESTA application using your updated passport details.
Keep a copy of your ESTA approval (digital or printed)
Keep a copy of your ESTA approval, either in digital form on your phone or as a printed document. While the authorization is stored electronically and linked to your passport, having a copy provides extra reassurance in case of any system errors or questions during check-in or immigration.
A printed version can also be useful when passing through airports with limited internet access or if airline staff request proof of approval before boarding.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the United States. This “six-month rule” is a common requirement for international travel, ensuring that your passport remains valid throughout your trip and for a buffer period afterward.
Travelers whose passports are close to expiring may be denied boarding or entry, so it is recommended to renew your passport well in advance if it is nearing its expiration date.
Enjoy Your Trip!
The ESTA system has simplified travel to the United States for millions of visitors from Visa Waiver Program countries. With a quick online application and affordable fee, ESTA is an efficient way to secure short-term entry for tourism, business, or transit.
However, travelers must understand its limitations, especially the 90-day rule and restrictions on work or study.
If you plan to visit the U.S., applying for ESTA early ensures a smooth journey and peace of mind.
FAQ: ESTA Visa
How long is ESTA valid?
An approved ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first). It can be used for multiple trips, but each stay cannot exceed 90 days. Extensions are not allowed.What are the passport requirements?
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay in the United States. If it’s close to expiring, renew it before applying to avoid entry problems.Does ESTA guarantee entry to the U.S.?
No. ESTA authorizes you to travel, but final entry approval is made by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the port of entry.What happens if my ESTA is denied?
If your ESTA application is denied, you must apply for a regular U.S. visa through the embassy or consulate.What can I do in the U.S. with ESTA?
You can travel for tourism, short business visits, family visits, or transit. ESTA does not allow you to work, study long-term, or stay for more than 90 days.